HP expands local recycling program for printers, PCs

HP today announced the expansion of its "HP Planet Partners Program" to consumer and small business customers. Previously available only to its direct enterprise customers, the recycling program will allow consumers and small to medium businesses to drop off their broken and end-of-life HP-branded equipment at one of 10 locations around Australia for environmentally friendly disposal.

Accepted equipment includes broken and unused printers, computers, monitors and computer peripherals. These will be accepted in key locations in Australian capital cities, as well as the Gold Coast and Central Coast. HP says the initiative will allow the electronics manufacturer to reuse key materials like plastic and metal in new products.

There are some key differences between the enterprise program and the one for consumers and small businesses. Unlike the enterprise program, consumers and businesses are expected to drop off the equipment themselves, and only HP-branded equipment will be accepted. The program is free of charge, however.

"The environment is top of mind for consumers and businesses today," said HP South Pacific Environmental Manager Kok Wah Boey in a press statement. "HP believes in the shared responsibility of producers and customers in handling end-of-life products in an environmentally responsible way."

Consumers and small businesses can find their nearest drop-off point by e-mailing HP at hptakeback@tes-amm.com.au or calling 1300 325 961.

The program's expansion to consumers and small businesses comes after HP trialled a one-off initiative at two Dick Smith (DSE) locations in Sydney recently. HP said the trial was a success, with consumers dropping off 3228kg of equipment over the course of a week.

HP already offers several recycling programs for specific products and consumables in Australia. Consumers and businesses can safely dispose of printer and multifunction ink cartridges and laser toners through Planet Ark's "Cartridges 4 Planet Ark" scheme, which is available in various retail locations around Australia. The environmental organisation also collates recycling initiative information at its Recycling Near You Web site. HP is also involved in Byteback, a free scheme in Victoria which collects and recycles component equipment, components and peripherals.

The screen was particularly good. It is bright and visible from most angles, however heat is an issue, particularly around the Windows button on the front, and on the back where the battery housing is located.

My first impression after unboxing the Q702 is that it is a nice looking unit. Styling is somewhat minimalist but very effective. The tablet part, once detached, has a nice weight, and no buttons or switches are located in awkward or intrusive positions.

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